Swinburne Maddison announces managing partner succession

North East law firm Swinburne Maddison has announced that managing partner Jonathan Moreland will retire from the role and the firm at the end of 2026, with commercial property partner Victoria Walton set to succeed him in January 2027.

Jonathan will conclude a 35-year career with the Durham-headquartered firm, having joined in 1991 and played a key role in the creation of the modern Swinburne Maddison following its merger in 1998.

Since becoming managing partner in 2021, he has overseen a period of significant growth, including a 38 per cent increase in turnover, major expansion of the firm’s workforce and multiple industry awards, including Northern Law Awards Law Firm of the Year titles in 2023 and 2025.

Jonathan said: “It has been an enormous privilege and honour to lead Swinburne Maddison. 

“The role has been about far more than leadership alone – it has meant being part of a firm where people genuinely belong, care about one another and remain deeply committed to supporting our clients”.

He added: “Victoria has played a major role in shaping our success and truly embodies Swinburne Maddison.

“I can think of no one better to lead the firm into its next chapter with confidence, integrity, honour and fresh energy.”

Victoria Walton joined the firm as a trainee in 1999 and currently leads its commercial property team, which has achieved regional and national recognition in recent years. 

She has also served on the firm’s management committee for six years and will continue practising within commercial property alongside her new leadership role.

Victoria added: “My priorities will be supporting our team to progress their careers while continuing to deliver exceptional service to our clients. 

“By investing in our team of experts, recruiting for cultural fit and making sure all staff have a voice we will continue to expand within the region while retaining our reputation as Durham’s leading law firm”.

As part of the succession plans, David Low will become head of dispute resolution and Sharney Randhawa will take on the role of head of employment from January 2027.

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